Illalong News

29th November, 2018

From the Principal's Desk

The end of another year is now upon us, and I am left thinking, where has the time gone? It seemed like only yesterday that we launched a video about the new Year 4 classrooms, and the Junior School staff playing in the Winton playground. Where did the year go?

We have now farewelled another cohort of students – our Graduates of 2018. They were a lovely group of young people who cared deeply about each other and who achieved many wonderful things during their time at our College. They will be long-remembered, and we wish them well.

The end of the year is an opportunity for us to reflect on the time that has past. I reflect on the many wonderful positives in our community, the challenges and also the things that have not gone so well. Such reflection is indeed important, to learn from mistakes and to genuinely understand the journey that has been travelled in order that we may plot our course for the future.

It is also a time during which we should express our gratitude – both inwardly and to others. The American author, Melodie Beattie stated, “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow”; whereas Marcus Tullius Cicero said, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others”. I love these two quotes and in fact have these on a little stand on my desk at home as a daily reminder. These are important words for me to ponder each day, as there are times when ‘gratitude’ takes a back seat in our lives – and it shouldn’t.

I have seen people face the most challenging of situations, health issues and problems and yet remain thankful for what they have. They have an inner peace that is truly beautiful, and I have marvelled at their courage. These people express gratitude, and this does bring them peace and a mindset that provides much direction for them.

I feel, all too often in our daily lives, that we are so busy we do not truly stop to reflect and express our gratitude and I am absolutely guilty of this, despite the reminders on my desk. So my challenge and my wish for all in our community is that you will take the time to consider your life at our College, in our community and that you will express your gratitude either silently within or directly to someone for having the opportunity to be a part of this community. When we express gratitude, we lift our spirits and we lift others.

With that, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday and look forward to your safe return in 2019.